Discover the best activities to do in Provence, from hiking the Calanques National Park to exploring the Roman ruins in Arles and the historic streets of Marseille. Find top recommendations for wine tasting, lavender fields, Provençal markets, and much more.
Visiting Provence is a journey into the heart of Southern France, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create an unforgettable experience. From the lavender fields of the Luberon and the rolling vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to the bustling streets of Marseille and the charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon, Provence offers something for every traveler. Explore Roman ruins in Arles, hike the dramatic cliffs of the Calanques National Park, or relax on the beaches of Cassis. The region is a paradise for food and wine lovers, with countless opportunities to enjoy Provençal cuisine at local markets, gourmet restaurants, and vineyard tours. Whether you're wandering through historic towns like Avignon, kayaking in the Gorges du Verdon, or taking in the vibrant art scene in Aix-en-Provence, Provence is full of activities that immerse you in its rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
Explore the Historic Heart of Aix-en-Provence
Why Do It: Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its rich history, lively markets, and impressive architecture.
Key Activities: Wander along the Cours Mirabeau, visit the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, explore the Musée Granet, and stop by Paul Cézanne's studio to see where the famous artist worked.
Tips: Visit on market days (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays) to experience the vibrant Provençal market.
Visit the Calanques National Park
Why Do It: This stunning natural park offers breathtaking coastal scenery with rocky inlets, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs between Marseille and Cassis.
Key Activities: Hiking the trails, taking a boat tour from Cassis or Marseille, kayaking, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Tips: Wear good walking shoes and pack plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months. Consider a boat tour for a different perspective of the cliffs.
Discover the Papal History in Avignon
Why Do It: Avignon’s historical significance as the seat of the Catholic papacy in the 14th century makes it a cultural and historical hub.
Key Activities: Visit the Palais des Papes, explore the famous Pont d'Avignon, and stroll through the city's medieval streets.
Tips: Visit during the Avignon Festival in July for a vibrant arts and theater experience.
Wine Tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Why Do It: Châteauneuf-du-Pape is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, known for its robust red wines.
Key Activities: Visit local vineyards and wine cellars for tastings, take a guided vineyard tour, and learn about the region’s unique winemaking techniques.
Tips: Arrange transportation in advance or book a guided tour to avoid worrying about driving after wine tasting.
Explore the Roman Heritage in Arles
Why Do It: Arles is rich in Roman history and was once an important Roman colony.
Key Activities: Visit the Roman amphitheater, ancient theater, and the Alyscamps necropolis. Don't miss the Van Gogh walking tour, as Arles was the setting for many of his famous works.
Tips: The Roman amphitheater often hosts events and performances, so check the schedule when planning your visit.
Hike in the Luberon Regional Park
Why Do It: The Luberon is famed for its picturesque villages, lavender fields, vineyards, and rolling hills, making it a perfect destination for hiking.
Key Activities: Explore trails around villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Provençal countryside.
Tips: Visit in late June or July to see the lavender fields in full bloom.
Visit the Hilltop Villages of the Luberon
Why Do It: The hilltop villages of the Luberon, such as Gordes, Ménerbes, Lourmarin, and Bonnieux, are quintessentially Provençal and full of charm.
Key Activities: Wander the narrow streets, visit local art galleries and boutiques, and enjoy the breathtaking views over the valley.
Tips: Combine a visit to multiple villages in one day for a scenic drive through the region.
Visit the Ochre Cliffs in Roussillon
Why Do It: The vivid red, orange, and yellow hues of Roussillon’s ochre cliffs offer a striking natural contrast to the typical Provençal landscape.
Key Activities: Walk the "Sentier des Ocres" trail to explore the ochre quarries and learn about the region’s natural pigments.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dusty, as the ochre powder can be messy.
Discover the Art and History of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Why Do It: Saint-Rémy is both a historical treasure and an artistic inspiration, especially as the place where Van Gogh painted many masterpieces.
Key Activities: Visit Saint-Paul-de-Mausole (Van Gogh’s asylum), explore the Roman ruins at Glanum, and enjoy the local market.
Tips: Time your visit for market days (Wednesday mornings) for an authentic Provençal experience.
Sail or Kayak Around Cassis
Why Do It: The small coastal town of Cassis offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, with opportunities to explore its famous Calanques by boat or kayak.
Key Activities: Take a boat tour to explore the Calanques, rent a kayak for a more active adventure, or relax on the local beaches.
Tips: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially in summer.
Relax at the Beaches of Cassis
Why Do It: Cassis offers beautiful Mediterranean beaches with crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
Key Activities: Sunbathe on the pebbly beaches, swim in the calm sea, or explore the nearby Calanques.
Tips: Plage de la Grande Mer is the most accessible, for other options, try Plage de l’Arène or Plage du Bestouan.
Visit the Lavender Fields of Plateau de Valensole
Why Do It: The Valensole Plateau is one of the most famous locations for lavender fields, offering a truly magical experience in late June and July when the fields are in full bloom.
Key Activities: Wander through the lavender fields, visit local distilleries for lavender products, and take stunning photos of the endless purple rows.
Tips: The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
Explore the Historic Streets of Marseille
Why Do It: As France’s oldest city, Marseille is filled with history, culture, and vibrant energy.
Key Activities: Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, explore the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations), stroll around the Old Port, and experience the lively market at Noailles.
Tips: Be sure to try the local seafood, especially the famous bouillabaisse.
Experience Provençal Markets
Why Do It: Provençal markets are a feast for the senses, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods and regional specialties.
Key Markets: Aix-en-Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and Lourmarin.
Tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best selection of goods.
Take a Cooking Class in Provence
Why Do It: Provençal cuisine is world-famous for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, and taking a cooking class is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Key Activities: Learn to make traditional dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, or tapenade, often using ingredients sourced from local markets.
Tips: Many cooking classes include a visit to a local market for ingredient shopping, enhancing the experience.
Visit the Abbaye de Sénanque
Why Do It: This picturesque 12th-century Cistercian abbey, set amid lavender fields near Gordes, is one of Provence’s most iconic sights.
Key Activities: Explore the abbey grounds, take a guided tour to learn about its history, and photograph the lavender fields in summer.
Tips: Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best light for photography.
Hike Mont Ventoux
Why Do It: Mont Ventoux, known as the “Giant of Provence,” offers both challenging hikes and rewarding panoramic views of the region.
Key Activities: Hiking, cycling (a favorite route for Tour de France enthusiasts), and enjoying the scenic drive up the mountain.
Tips: The ascent is steep and challenging, so prepare adequately with good hiking shoes, water, and sun protection.
Canoe or Kayak in the Gorges du Verdon
Why Do It: The Gorges du Verdon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise.
Key Activities: Canoeing or kayaking through the stunning turquoise waters, hiking along the cliffs, and swimming in the river.
Tips: Start early in the day to avoid crowds and ensure you have plenty of time to explore.
Explore L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’s Antique Markets
Why Do It: Known as the "Venice of Provence" for its canals, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is famous for its antique markets, which draw collectors and treasure hunters from all over the world. The town hosts one of the largest antique markets in France, offering everything from vintage furniture and artwork to rare collectibles and jewelry.
Key Activities: Browse the market every weekend, or visit during the Easter and August fairs when the market expands into an international event, attracting antique dealers from across Europe. Stroll through the town’s quaint streets lined with waterwheels and picturesque canals as you search for unique treasures.
Tips: Arrive early to beat the crowds and find the best pieces. Bargaining is common at the markets, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a good deal!
Explore the Cistercian Abbey of Thoronet
Why Do It: One of Provence's most important religious sites, the Abbaye du Thoronet is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and a serene place of reflection.
Key Activities: Take a guided tour of the abbey, admire its beautiful acoustics and simplicity, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Visit the Camargue Natural Park
Why Do It: The Camargue is a unique wetland area known for its wild horses, flamingos, and salt flats. It's perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Key Activities: Go on a safari tour to see the wildlife, explore the salt marshes, and visit the medieval town of Aigues-Mortes.
Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the marshes.
Explore the Village des Bories
Why Do It: The Village des Bories is an open-air museum in Gordes offers a fascinating look at ancient dry-stone dwellings used by shepherds and farmers in Provence.
Key Activities: Walk through the stone village and learn about the history of these unique structures and their architectural techniques.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the village is uneven and rocky.
Tour the Château des Baux-de-Provence
Why Do It: Perched atop a rocky plateau, the Château des Baux-de-Provence offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into Provence's medieval history.
Key Activities: Explore the castle ruins, watch medieval reenactments, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Alpilles.
Tips: Visit early in the day to avoid the heat, and check the schedule for special events and demonstrations.
Explore the Olive Groves and Oil Mills of Les Alpilles
Why Do It: Provence is famous for its olive oil, and visiting the olive groves of Les Alpilles gives you a taste of the region's agricultural heritage.
Key Activities: Tour local olive oil mills, learn about traditional olive oil production, and sample different varieties of olive oil.
Tips: Many mills offer tastings and tours, especially during the olive harvest season in autumn.
Visit the Market and Festival of Truffle in Richerenches
Why Do It: Richerenches is renowned for its winter truffle markets, where you can experience the magic of Provence's black truffle.
Key Activities: Explore the local market, participate in truffle hunting tours, and enjoy a truffle-inspired meal.
Tips: The truffle market takes place on Saturdays from November to March, so plan your visit during the winter season.
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Provence
Why Do It: Soar above the scenic Luberon or Alpilles landscapes and take in sweeping views of vineyards, villages, and lavender fields from the sky.
Key Activities: Enjoy a peaceful hot air balloon flight and marvel at the breathtaking Provençal countryside from above.
Tips: Book early, as flights are dependent on weather conditions, and aim for early morning rides for the best light and calm winds.
